Vehicle Description
The late 1920s were proving to be a lucrative and highly
competitive time for American luxury car manufacturers. A wealthy
buyer was ripe with choice, with the market being led by
Duesenberg, with others such as Cadillac, Packard, Pierce-Arrow and
Cord following closely behind. Foreign marques also played a role
in the market with demand for exotic machines from Hispano-Suiza,
Rolls Royce and Bentley. Simultaneously, the American coachbuilding
industry was experiencing a high, with strong demand for custom
bodies coming from business moguls on the East Coast, and Hollywood
stars on the West Coast. In 1930, Cadillac's V12 and V16 engines
had spawned a multi-cylinder race among manufacturers, with Packard
and Lincoln quick to respond with their own V12 engines, and Marmon
matching Cadillac with a superb V16 of its own. Pierce-Arrow, once
one of the largest luxury motorcar manufacturers in America, was
working hard to keep up. They had earned a reputation for quality
that was virtually unmatched and their clients remained loyal to
the brand. The pace of development among competitors was rapid, and
Pierce-Arrow reacted to Cadillac's flagships in 1932 with the
introduction of a line of V12 engines. Power output of 150
horsepower for the larger unit was very respectable, but for the
following year, pierce dropped the smaller engine for a single, 462
cubic inch unit producing a full 175 horsepower to match the output
of the mighty Cadillac Sixteen. More changes came in 1934, and as a
result, the 1933 models are favored by enthusiasts today thanks to
their power, poise and unmistakable styling. This striking 1933
Pierce-Arrow 1242 Twelve wears rare and exquisitely styled
convertible sedan coachwork by LeBaron. It is a beautiful example
with a rich and fascinating history. Believed to be originally
delivered to Hollywood starlet Carole Lombard in 1933, the
luxurious twelve cylinder model was originally outfitted with this
stylish LeBaron body. Ms. Lombard is best known for her roles in
slapstick comedies of the 30s, but was also an accomplished
dramatic actress. A natural beauty and talented woman, she famously
married Clark Gable 1939, but was tragically killed in a plane
crash in 1942. Following her tragic death, the Pierce-Arrow
disappeared for some time until, in the late 1940s, it was
discovered in a Los Angeles used car lot by a Mr. Riggs. Mr. Riggs
was a Pierce enthusiast who recognized it as a very special
machine. He purchased the car and reportedly drove it to his home
in Portland, Oregon where it then remained in storage for many
years. It was then passed to his nephew, Mr. Samuel Merrell who
then sold the car in 1998 to noted Pierce-Arrow historian, Pat
Craig. Mr. Craig then embarked on an extensive, carefully
researched restoration that saw this stunning automobile returned
to its former glory. Following Mr. Craig's time with the car, it
became part of the prestigious John O'Quinn collection. Mr. Quinn's
passing saw the Pierce sold again, eventually ending in the hands
of a passionate European collector who carefully and meticulously
prepared the car for touring, ensuring it would be a reliable,
thoroughly usable machine. As an enthusiast who enjoys putting his
cars through their paces, he subsequently racked up several
thousand kilometers in road events and arduous rallies around
Europe. Although it has seen a great deal of use, the Pierce-Arrow
remains in beautiful condition, the restoration having held up
exceptionally well. The color choice of light green with light
gray-green feature lines, accents, and artillery wheels suits the
LeBaron body. Subtle, well-judged orange coach lines bring some of
the interior shade out to the body. The subdued but elegant
exterior is contrasted by a magnificently finished tan ostrich
leather interior. The quality of the restoration is impeccable and
it remains lovely, showing only the slightest signs of use that do
little to detract from the striking presence. Chrome accessories
present in excellent condition, including a pair of Pilot Ray
driving lamps and kneeling Archer mascot. Dual side-mount spares
are fitted with body-color covers, topped with correct Pierce-Arrow
mirrors. Opening the door reveals the simply magnificent interior.
Reddish-tan ostrich leather covers the seats and door cards, which
have been artfully crafted by the renowned Ken Nemanic of Vintage
Automotive Upholstery. The level of detail, particularly in the
rear compartment, is remarkable. Beautifully finished woodwork
graces the door caps, ashtray covers and dash, while the instrument
panel features a full array of original, restored instruments.
Chrome fittings and switchgear are all in excellent order. We can
certainly appreciate why the previous owner enjoyed driving this
car so much, the interior is a fabulous place to spend time.
Mechanically, this twelve-cylinder Pierce remains exceptional. The
attentive maintenance and regular use performed by the most recent
owner imparts the car with a fabulous feeling on the road. Riding
on a 139-inch wheelbase, it has excellent proportions yet is a
manageable size for easier use on the road. The 462 Cubic Inch V12
engine shows very well. Some of the enamel has worn off the
manifolds, which is a natural occurrence of a car that sees regular
use, but the finishes and fittings appear very correct. The engine
is finished in correct colors and in spite of the road preparation,
it is properly detailed with period correct hoses, fittings and
hardware. Since the restoration, it has been shown at the Greenwich
Concours d'Elegance where it received the prize for the Best
American Open Car, as well as prizes at the Radnor Hunt Concours in
Pennsylvania. Given the quality, lovely presentation and historical
significance, it would be most welcome at similar events, yet is
FIVA registered and ready for touring and rallies; prepared by a
noted enthusiast to be enjoyed on the world's best roads.
